Spruce Up Jamaica to be relaunched

Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the ministry will be relaunching the Spruce Up Jamaica programme in January 2017.

He said the beautification programme, which initially started in 2007, will ensure that resort towns are maintained in pristine condition.

"We want to ensure our resort areas will lead by example in sustaining a clean and healthy environment for both our locals and visitors," Bartlett said.

Meanwhile, Bartlett said that with projections for a strong winter tourist season, increased emphasis will be placed on ensuring that the sector positively impacts the lives of ordinary Jamaicans.

Bartlett said it was important that the message of inclusiveness is fully understood, saying he is committed to broaden the reach of the industry to positively impact the lives of "all Jamaicans".

"That is why we have created the Tourism Linkages Network," he pointed out. "It is important to note that we don't create these bodies for the sake of creating something. We create these linkages because we want to ensure that more Jamaicans have the opportunity to be part of the sector and reap the many benefits," he added.

Beach access

He cited initiatives such as the National Beach Development Programme, which will provide "full access to some of our island's best beaches" for all Jamaicans and visitors, including persons who are physically challenged.

Bartlett noted that tourism is a major part of the Government's growth strategy, with earnings of US$2.5 billion last year, while providing tens of thousands of jobs and fuelling numerous other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, transportation and entertainment.